“While serving with Derek as a former Director of KIUC, I sensed in him a dedication and desire to do that which was expected of him as a director. His willingness to listen and his forward-looking outlook contributed much to solutions and decisions. He is motivated by a desire to help build a legacy of Kauai which future generations can be thankful for.” – Alfred Laureta

1st Filipino-American to be appointed U.S. district judge (1969)
1st Filipino-American to be appointed judge of Hawaii’s Circuit Court One (1969)
1st Filipino-American director of the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations in Hawaii (1963)

“I have had the privilege of knowing the Kawakami family from childhood. My relationship dates back to Derek’s grandfather, H.S. Kawakami, who was my father’s high school classmate, and continued forward with Derek’s uncle…my dear 442nd buddy, George Kawakami.

Derek is the third generation Kawakami I have had the honor of working with; he served as my 2004 Kauai Campaign Co-Chair. It was a learning opportunity, and he did a fine job. I believe it also piqued his own interest in public service.

I am very pleased that Derek is carrying forward the Kawakami tradition of leadership and giving back to the community.”

My approach to leadership is honoring our past while building our future.
If we can maintain this focus, we'll be able to move forward in a respectful, responsible and productive manner.
I humbly ask for your vote for Kauai County Mayor. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued support.